Red and organ meat contain higher levels of purines, which are substances that can increase uric acid levels. Check with your doctor about avoiding or limiting purine-rich foods while still meeting your nutritional requirements.
Avoid eating seafood more than 2 to 3 times per week, or as directed by your doctor.
Make sure your breads and pastas are labeled “whole grain,” as they’re healthier choices than refined products.
Purines are released as your body breaks down the type of sugar found in sweets and soft drinks. In turn, purines lead to spikes in uric acid levels and gout flare-ups.
Dairy products may lower uric acid levels by helping your body flush the substances that form uric acid. If you’re dairy-free, you’ll need non-dairy alternatives to meet your daily calcium needs, but they may not have the same effect on uric acid levels as actual dairy.
Remember to drink more liquids when it’s hot, during physical activity, and when you’re sweating a lot. Drinking 1 cup (240 mL) every 20 minutes during these periods should do the trick. Don’t wait to drink until you’re thirsty, as thirst means you’re started to get dehydrated. Instead, check your urine to gauge your hydration. If it’s dark yellow in color, you need to drink more fluids.
If you have gout, avoid alcohol altogether during an attack. Ask your doctor for recommendations on drinking in moderation, especially if you have medical issues other than high uric acid.
In addition to managing uric acid, maintaining a health diet and losing weight can help reduce strain on your joints. If you have gout, lowering joint stress can help you manage pain and maintain joint function. Find out your daily recommend calorie intake, and try not to exceed that number. Additionally, eat a healthy, low-fat, and low-sugar diet. Swapping soft drinks for water is also a great way to cut calories. Try to get 30 minutes of light to moderate exercise per day, or according to your doctor’s instructions. Keep meal and exercise journals to track your progress. Calculate your daily calorie and nutritional needs at https://www. choosemyplate. gov/myplateplan.
Avoid over-scheduling yourself or taking on too many commitments. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask a friend a relative to help you with responsibilities such as childcare, housework, and errands.
Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. If side effects interfere with your quality of life, ask your doctor if it’s possible to try another medication for uric acid.
Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, bruising, and sore throat. Tell your doctor if any side effects are severe, or if you experience rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling. [14] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Note that diuretics, which are prescribed for high blood pressure and a range of other medical conditions, can increase uric acid levels. Ask your doctor if a drug could affect your uric acid levels and see if you should take any steps to lower your risk, such as drinking more water. [16] X Research source
Additionally, do your best to avoid using the affected joint as long as symptoms like pain, swelling, or redness persist.
For instance, your doctor may advise taking 800 mg of ibuprofen 4 times a day while you experience symptoms and for an additional 24 hours after pain and inflammation subside.
Most people who take colchicine experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If side effects interfere with your normal routine, talk to your doctor about lowering your dose. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking colchicine.
While you may experience discomfort at the injection site, side effects are usually minimal for injected corticosteroids. Systemic oral corticosteroids may cause side effects including weight gain, high blood sugar, and increased risk for infections.
